The federal government renewed the EcoEnergy Retrofit program for the next seven months – until March 31, 2012, homeowners can get grants of up to $5000 to make their homes more energy efficient. Make home improvements that increase energy efficiency and lower energy costs your priority! The grant can be used for anything from improved insulation to energy- efficient appliances to toilets that use less water – as long as the expense will reduce energy consumption. First, register with the program and book a pr e-retrofit evaluation (before you do any renovation). An auditor will come to your home and give you a guide as to the types of improvements to make for a more energy efficient home. Once the work is complete, you book a post-retrofit evaluation where the auditor will assess the work. You will need to produce receipts for the work and materials. Participants in the program have seen their consumption go down more than 20 per cent. The program ends at the end of March so get started!